Hyperion

by Dan Simmons
Hyperion cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
Technical:
  • ID: 1915
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9780575099968
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2010-08-05
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99
Bookshop
Format • £12.34

Hyperion is a groundbreaking space opera that masterfully combines elements of the Canterbury Tales with a richly imagined sci-fi universe. The story unfolds through the tales of seven pilgrims journeying to the mysterious Time Tombs on Hyperion, each with their own secrets and motivations. The novel is celebrated for its intricate world-building, poetic prose, and the chilling presence of the enigmatic Shrike, a being that transcends time and space. Set in the 29th century, the Human Hegemony faces imminent threat from the warlike Ousters and the scheming TechnoCore. The pilgrims' quest is not just for answers but for the very essence of existence, making Hyperion a profound exploration of humanity, destiny, and the unknown. Praised for its imaginative scope and literary depth, this novel is a must-read for fans of epic sci-fi and thought-provoking narratives.

Reviews
Reddit - r/Fantasy · 2023-07-30
greatest 5.00

Hyperion is hailed as the greatest science fiction novel, excelling in writing, story, character, themes, and creativity.

This Reddit reviewer considers Hyperion the greatest science fiction novel they've ever read, praising it for its excellence in writing, story, character development, themes, and creativity. They believe the book just works on every level, making it a masterpiece in the genre. The reviewer is thoroughly impressed by the book's ability to captivate and engage readers, highlighting its multifaceted appeal. They recommend it highly to anyone looking for a top-tier science fiction experience.

Quick quotes

    Hyperion is the greatest sf novel I've ever read.

    It just works on pretty much every level - writing, story, character, themes, creativity.

    Just an incredible, mind-blowing, and thought-provoking read.

Hipsters of the Coast · 2022-04-06
standout 4.00

Hyperion is considered a standout among standard science fiction classics, regardless of its ratings. It is praised for its unique and captivating narrative.

The reviewer at Hipsters of the Coast believes Hyperion stands out among the standard science fiction classics, regardless of whether it is over-, under-, or properly rated. They find the book to be a unique and captivating narrative that holds its own in the genre. The reviewer suggests that Hyperion offers something special that sets it apart from other works, making it a must-read for science fiction enthusiasts. They appreciate the book's ability to engage readers and leave a lasting impression.

Quick quotes

    Whether over-, under-, or properly rated, Hyperion stands out among the standard science fiction classics.

    It offers something special that sets it apart from other works.

    Hyperion offers a unique and captivating narrative.

Novel Notions · 2022-03-05
magnificent 4.50

The book is praised as an imaginative and magnificent classic of science fiction. It is considered a standout piece with rich storytelling and interconnected tales.

This reviewer absolutely loves Hyperion, calling it an imaginative and magnificent classic of science fiction. They highlight the book's rich storytelling and how the tales cleverly interconnect as the narrative progresses. The writing style is particularly noted for its brilliance, making it a standout piece in the genre. The reviewer is so impressed that they've dedicated their 600th review to this book, which speaks volumes about its impact. They encourage readers to dive into this epic, as it offers a unique and captivating experience that lingers long after the last page.

Quick quotes

    Hyperion, an absolutely imaginative and magnificent classic science fiction novel.

    The tales cleverly interconnect as the narrative progresses.

    The writing style receives positive feedback, noting its brilliance.

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